Combine the water, sugar and yeast. Allow to sit for 5 minutes or until the mixture begins to foam.

Pour into flour and add butter and, using the dough hook attachment, mix on low speed until well combined. Change to medium speed and knead until the dough is smooth and pulls away from the side of the bowl, approximately 4 to 5 minutes. Remove the dough from the bowl, clean the bowl and then oil it well with vegetable oil. Return the dough to the bowl, cover with plastic wrap and sit in a warm place for approximately 50 to 55 minutes or until the dough has doubled in size.

Punch down the dough, and divide equally into 10 pieces or 8 if you want larger pretzels. Roll dough into a thin long log, create a U shape, then bring both ends down, twist and press onto the bottom of the U

Bring the 8 cups of water to a boil and add the baking soda. Keep water to a rolling boil.

Place pretzel in boiling water for 30-40 seconds, turn over half way. Use a slotted spatula and remove the pretzel from the water, drain, and place on baking sheet lined with silicon mat

Preheat over to 425 and bake till golden brown, about 18-20 minutes.