Bratapfel Crumble with Vanilla Ice Cream Recipe
Introduction
Bratapfel Crumble with Vanilla Ice Cream is a cozy autumn dessert that combines tender baked apples with a crunchy, buttery topping. Paired with smooth vanilla ice cream, it brings a delightful mix of warm spices and creamy sweetness to your table. Perfect for sharing on chilly evenings!

Ingredients
- 4 tart apples (such as Granny Smith or Braeburn), cored and sliced
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon water
- 3/4 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free alternative)
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into pieces
- Vanilla ice cream, to serve
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Step 2: In a large bowl, toss the sliced apples with brown sugar, cinnamon, and water until well coated.
- Step 3: In another bowl, combine rolled oats, flour, and brown sugar. Add the cold butter pieces and use your fingers to rub the mixture until it forms coarse crumbs.
- Step 4: Spread the apple mixture evenly in a baking dish. Sprinkle the crumble topping generously over the apples.
- Step 5: Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, until the apples are tender and the crumble is golden brown.
- Step 6: Let the crumble cool for a few minutes before serving. Top each portion with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Tips & Variations
- Use Honeycrisp apples for a sweeter, juicier crumble.
- Substitute coconut sugar for brown sugar for a healthier alternative.
- For a dairy-free version, replace butter with coconut oil and serve with almond milk ice cream.
- Add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice for extra warmth in the spice mix.
Storage
Store any leftover crumble in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave before serving. It’s best served warm with fresh vanilla ice cream.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use frozen apples for this recipe?
Yes, frozen apples can be used, but be sure to thaw and drain any excess liquid before mixing with the sugar and spices to avoid a soggy crumble.
How can I make this crumble gluten-free?
Replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and use certified gluten-free rolled oats to keep the topping safe for gluten-sensitive diets.
PrintBratapfel Crumble with Vanilla Ice Cream Recipe
Enjoy the cozy flavors of autumn with this delicious Bratapfel Crumble topped with creamy vanilla ice cream. Tender baked apples infused with cinnamon and brown sugar are nestled beneath a crunchy oat crumble, creating a warm and comforting dessert perfect for festive gatherings or cozy nights in.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: German
Ingredients
Apples
- 4 tart apples (Granny Smith or Braeburn), cored and thinly sliced
Apple Mixture
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons water
Crumble Topping
- 3/4 cup rolled oats (or certified gluten-free oats)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour)
- 1/3 cup brown sugar
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
To Serve
- Vanilla ice cream (dairy or dairy-free, e.g. almond or coconut milk-based)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking the crumble evenly.
- Prepare the apples: Core and slice the apples into thin wedges. In a large bowl, toss them with brown sugar, cinnamon, and a splash of water until the apples are evenly coated, providing a sweet and spiced base for the dessert.
- Make the crumble topping: In a separate bowl, combine rolled oats, flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Add the cold butter cubes and use your fingers to mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs, giving the crumble its signature crunchy texture.
- Assemble the dish: Spread the apple mixture evenly into a baking dish. Generously sprinkle the crumble topping over the apples to create a crunchy crust that bakes golden brown.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the crumble topping is golden and crisp.
- Serve: Remove the dish from the oven and let it cool slightly for a few minutes. Serve the warm crumble topped with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream, allowing it to melt into the warm dessert for a delightful contrast of temperatures and textures.
Notes
- Use tart apples like Granny Smith or Braeburn for a perfect balance of flavor and texture; Honeycrisp apples can add sweetness.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute butter with coconut oil or plant-based butter and use non-dairy vanilla ice cream.
- To make it gluten-free, opt for gluten-free oats and flour alternatives.
- Add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice to the apple mixture for additional warm spice notes.
- Let the crumble cool slightly before serving to prevent the ice cream from melting too quickly.
Keywords: Bratapfel, apple crumble, baked apples, cinnamon dessert, vanilla ice cream, autumn dessert, German dessert

