Little Caesar's Pretzel Crust Pizza

1-1/2 cups warm water (110° to 115°)
2 tablespoons sugar
1 tablespoon active dry yeast
4 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup hot water
2 tablespoons baking soda
1/4 teaspoon pretzel or coarse salt
PIZZA:
1/2 cup salsa con queso dip, such as Tostitos
2 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend
1/2 cup sliced pepperoni
1 tablespoon butter, melted

In a stand mixer, stir together warm water, sugar and yeast; let stand until foamy, 4-5 minutes. Add flour and 1 teaspoon table salt. Using a dough hook, mix on low speed until dough comes together, 1-2 minutes. Increase speed to medium and mix for an additional 5 minutes. Place in a greased bowl, turning once to grease the top. Cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled, about 45 minutes.
Preheat oven to 425°. Punch down dough; press into a 12-in. circle onto an ungreased 14-in. pizza pan. Let stand 10 minutes. Stir together hot water and baking soda; brush mixture over outer 1-in. Let stand 5 minutes; repeat. Sprinkle coarse salt over edge.
Spread queso dip over inside of crust. Top with cheese and pepperoni. Bake until crust is golden brown and cheese is melted, 16-18 minutes. Brush crust with melted butter before serving.