In a bowl add the milk and warm up the milk in the microwave for just about one and a half minutes. I use my pyrex measuring cups to heat it in. It should be about 110º. If it's too hot it will kill the yeast. You should be able to comfortably keep your finger in it.

Stir in the yeast and one tablespoon of the brown sugar and let it sit for about 10 minutes.

Melt 4 tablespoons of butter in a small bowl.

Now grab a large mixing bowl or the bowl of your stand mixer and pour the mixture into it.

Add the 4 tablespoons of butter and remaining brown sugar.

Add the flour about 1 cup at a time mixing after adding the flour while keeping the mixer on slow speed and then add the fine salt.

Knead for about 10 minutes with a stand mixer on medium speed or by hand.

Put it in a greased bowl and cover it with greased cling wrap.

Let rise for 1 hour in a moist, warm place to let the dough rise until doubled in size.

Preheat the oven to 450º.

Punch down dough and divide into 12-14 lumps.

Roll each piece with your hands to form a rope as thin as you can.

Combine the warm water and baking soda in a wide bowl.

Cut the dough into 6 inch pieces and shape each piece of dough into a pretzel form.

Then dip in the baking soda water.

Place on a greased baking sheet and sprinkle with coarse salt.

Bake for about 6-10 minutes or until dark golden brown.

Melt the remaining butter in a bowl while they are baking.

Dip each homemade pretzel in the melted 8 tablespoons of butter while hot.