Preheat oven to 425°F. Line two baking sheets with parchment.
Stir warm water and sugar in a large bowl. Sprinkle yeast over the top and let it foam, 5 minutes.
Mix flour and fine salt in the bowl. Add melted butter and the yeast mixture. Stir, then knead until smooth, 3–4 minutes.
Rest dough 10 minutes. Meanwhile bring 8 cups water to a gentle boil and carefully whisk in baking soda.
Divide dough into 4 pieces. Roll each into 1/2-inch ropes and cut into 1-inch bites.
Boil bites in batches for 30 seconds. Scoop out with a slotted spoon, drain well, and arrange on prepared sheets.
Sprinkle with coarse salt and bake until lightly golden, 10–12 minutes.
Scatter cheddar over the hot bites and bake 3–4 minutes more, until melted and bubbly.
Stir garlic powder into melted butter. Brush over warm pretzel bites and serve right away.
Notes
Try a jalapeño twist: add a pinch of cayenne to the dough and top with sliced pickled jalapeños before melting the cheese. For dipping, serve with honey mustard or warm marinara. To store, cool completely and refrigerate up to 3 days; reheat at 350°F for 6–8 minutes to crisp.This recipe is an original creation inspired by classic Easy Cheesy Pretzel Bites flavors. All ingredient ratios and instructions are independently developed.