In a medium saucepan, combine ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, molasses, honey, apple juice, and water. Whisk everything together until smooth.

Add Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, chilli powder, smoked paprika, and liquid smoke. Stir well to blend the seasonings evenly.

Place the pan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring now and then.

Once simmering, add the unsalted butter and stir until it’s fully melted and incorporated into the sauce.

Taste and adjust with salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed.

Let the sauce simmer gently for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens and the flavours come together.

Remove from heat and allow the sauce to cool slightly. Use immediately on pulled pork or transfer to an airtight container.