Prepare Dough: Combine warm milk with brown sugar and active dry yeast in a large mixing bowl. Let sit for 10 minutes until frothy. Mix in melted butter, salt, and all-purpose flour. Knead for about 5 minutes, then place in a greased bowl to rise for 1 hour.

Make Filling: Blend together pumpkin puree, shredded cheddar cheese, cream cheese, garlic powder, and smoked paprika until smooth. Keep in the refrigerator while dough rises.

Shape Bites: Punch down the dough and divide into 24 pieces. Flatten each into a disk, add 1 tablespoon of filling, fold dough over and seal. Place on lined baking sheet.

Boil Bites: In a pot, bring water to boil and add baking soda. Boil pretzel bites for 30 seconds, then transfer to a baking sheet.

Bake: Preheat oven to 400°F. Brush tops with melted butter and sprinkle with salt. Bake for 12-15 minutes until golden brown.

Serve: Let cool slightly and transfer to a platter. Garnish with parsley if desired. Serve warm.