In a small bowl, combine 1 cup of warm water, 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar, and 2 ¼ teaspoons of active dry yeast. Allow the mixture to sit for about 5 minutes until frothy.

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 4 cups of all-purpose flour and 1 teaspoon of salt. Create a well in the center and pour in the frothy yeast mixture. Stir until it forms a shaggy dough.

Flour a clean surface and knead the dough for about 5 to 7 minutes until smooth and elastic.

Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for around 1 hour or until doubled in size.

Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.

In a large pot, bring 10 cups of water to a boil and add ⅔ cup of baking soda carefully.

Punch down the dough, divide into 8 equal pieces, roll each into a long rope, wrap around a hot dog with a slice of cheese inside.

Drop each wrapped pretzel dog into the boiling soda water for 30 seconds per side and place them back on the lined baking sheets.

Brush each pretzel dog with a beaten egg and sprinkle with coarse salt.

Bake for 12 to 15 minutes or until golden brown and firm.

Let them cool for a few minutes on a wire rack before serving.