Warm a little olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Sprinkle in the garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, and smoked paprika. Give it a quick stir for about half a minute until the spices smell rich and toasty.

Pour in the apple butter, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, molasses, Worcestershire sauce, plus a pinch of salt and black pepper. Stir until it’s all blended, then let it come up to a soft simmer. Turn the heat down low once it starts bubbling.

Add the brandy or bourbon and stir it in. Keep the sauce gently simmering for around 10–15 minutes, stirring now and then, until it thickens and gets a nice glossy look. Taste it and tweak the salt or sweetness if needed. Let it cool before putting it away.