Gram’s Blueberry Crumb Cake

Extra moist and topped with a thick nutmeg-sugar crumble, Gram's Blueberry Crumb Cake is a beloved family recipe perfect for brunch, dessert, or any sweet treat.

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Today I'm sharing a recipe that is near and dear to my heart, my Gram's Blueberry Crumb Cake. I was blessed to have my grandmother in my life for 53 years. Sadly we lost her last September, she was 95 years old. This week marks the 1 year anniversary of her passing and she has been on my mind more than usual. I thought I would honor her memory her by sharing one of her favorite recipes.

My Gram

My grandmother never arrived at someone's home or an event without bringing something along. This blueberry crumb cake was one of her go-to treats for any occasion, and it quickly became everyone's favorite. I often wonder how many times this cake was hand-delivered to a friend, a new neighbor, a family Fourth of July party, a church gathering, or a baby shower.

She also often served this blueberry cake at her own home. My Gram was the ultimate hostess, with sandwiches and tea ready whenever anyone came to visit. Linen napkins, doilies, china, and silver were always on the table, set with a perfectly ironed tablecloth. Her home always smelled of fresh laundry - so much so that I sometimes wondered if the clothes dryer vent was somehow routed inside instead of outside. I love that memory. My Gram lived her entire adult life in the same tiny Cape-style house in Massachusetts, which was warm and inviting to all. I loved that house, and thankfully I have so many wonderful memories of my time spent there with her.

A special gift

A short time after my grandmother passed, I received a tea towel in the mail from my Aunt Andrea. It has my grandmother's handwritten Blueberry Cake recipe on it - oh, did it make me cry! It still brings tears to my eyes when I look at it, but in a happy, memory-filled way. This tea towel has become one of my favorite features on my new baking station, where it is proudly displayed (and not used!). Today, on the anniversary of her passing, I pulled the tea towel down and made Gram's Blueberry Crumb Cake for the first time myself.

About this cake

I stopped at our local farm stand to get a pint of fresh blueberries. Aside from the berries, this recipe requires very basic ingredients that most will have on hand. I started by rinsing the berries in my Berry Bowl from Crate and Barrel, then measured the dry ingredients. The wet ingredients were measured and set aside with the blueberries.

This recipe calls for sugar mixed with nutmeg for the topping. I measured the sugar in my small Crate and Barrel ceramic mixing bowl and added freshly grated nutmeg from my chalkboard spice jar drawer. This mixture is sprinkled on top of the batter right before it goes into the oven, creating a sweet, crunchy, and slightly spiced topping.

Why you'll love this recipe

• Extra moist texture thanks to vegetable oil.
• Balanced sweetness that complements the tartness of fresh blueberries.
• Thick sugar and nutmeg topping adds a satisfying crunch and warm spice.
• A classic, nostalgic flavor that's a beloved family favorite.
• The ultimate sharing recipe - perfect for new neighbors, family gatherings, or any special occasion. As my Gram would say - good for a crowd!

Ingredient notes

Vegetable Oil: Keeps the cake extra moist, which is what sets this recipe apart from typical blueberry cakes.

Blueberries: Fresh berries are ideal, but frozen can also be used -just do not thaw before adding to the batter to avoid excess liquid.

Sugar + Nutmeg Topping: The sugar provides crunch while the nutmeg adds a subtle warmth that elevates the flavor. A nice change from traditional cinnamon sugar toppings.

Step by step instructions

Follow these simple steps to make Gram's Blueberry Crumb Cake with its moist batter and sweet, crunchy cinnamon-nutmeg topping.

Step 1: Preheat Oven and Mix Dry Ingredients
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 3 cups all-purpose flour, 2 cups granulated sugar, 3 teaspoons baking powder, and 1 teaspoon salt.

Step 2: Add Wet Ingredients
Add 2 eggs, ⅓ cup vegetable oil, and 1 cup milk to the dry ingredients. Mix well using a whisk until fully combined.

Step 3: Fold in Blueberries
Gently fold in 1 pint of fresh blueberries. The batter will be thick.

Step 4: Prepare Pan
Grease a 9 x 13-inch baking pan with butter or cooking spray. Spoon the batter evenly into the prepared pan.

Step 5: Make the Topping
In a small bowl, combine ½ cup granulated sugar with ¾ teaspoon ground nutmeg. Whisk together until mixed.

Step 6: Add Topping
Sprinkle the sugar and nutmeg mixture evenly over the top of the batter.

Step 7: Bake
Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 8: Cool, Serve, and Store
Allow the cake to cool completely before cutting and serving. Store any leftovers covered at room temperature for up to 2 days, in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.

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More sweet treats to explore

This cake is not just a dessert. It is a piece of family history and a reminder of the warmth, love, and hospitality my Gram shared with everyone she knew. Whether you enjoy it for brunch, dessert, or to share with friends and neighbors, Gram's Blueberry Crumb Cake is sure to become a beloved favorite in your home too.

Happy baking (and sharing!)!