Take a medium saucepan and place it on low heat. Add butter and let it melt slowly. Once melted, add minced garlic. Stir gently so the garlic does not burn. Cook for one minute until the smell becomes rich and fragrant.

Now add ketchup, hot sauce, chili powder and smoked paprika. Mix everything slowly using a wooden spoon. Stir until the sauce turns smooth and deep red. Keep heat low so flavors blend well without burning or sticking to the pan.

Add honey, soy sauce and apple cider vinegar. These ingredients balance heat with sweetness and tang. Stir well so everything mixes evenly. Taste it carefully and adjust spice or sweetness if needed for your personal preference.

Pour in a little water to thin the sauce slightly. Stir again and let it simmer for 5 to 7 minutes. The sauce will slowly thicken and become glossy. Keep stirring to prevent sticking at the bottom of the pan.

Add black pepper and mix one last time. Taste again and adjust salt or spice if needed. Turn off the heat once the sauce reaches a smooth and thick consistency. Let it cool for a few minutes before using or storing.

Pour the sauce into a clean jar. You can serve it warm or cold. It pairs well with snacks, grilled meat or fries. The flavor becomes even stronger after resting for a few hours in the fridge.