Soft Pretzel Witches Fingers

Combine warm water, sugar, and active yeast in a small bowl and let rest 5 minutes until bubbles form.
While water mixture is sitting, mix 1 cup of the flour with the salt in a large bowl. Pour water mixture and mix until combined. Add in 1 more cup flour and knead until combined. Add final cup flour and knead on a lightly floured surface. If the dough is too dry, drizzle a little water on the dough. Knead 3-4 minutes until smooth. Wash bowl and add in vegetable oil and dough ball, turning to coat. Top with cling wrap and let sit for an hour.
While waiting, mix slivered almonds with a drop or two of red food coloring and let dry. Prepare a cookie sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat. Start a large pot of water to boil. Add baking soda once boiling and bring it down to a simmer.
Once the dough has risen, cut in half. Roll out and cut into 12 even sections. Roll each section into 3-5 inch pieces. Pinch in two places to make "knuckles." Place in simmering water and let sit for 1 minute. Take each out and put on cookie sheet. Mix egg with water and brush egg wash on each finger. Sprinkle with sea salt and place a slivered almond on each. Use a knife and cut knuckle lines in. Bake for 13-15 minutes until golden brown.