White Lily Cornbread Recipe to Make Your Day Better

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

The White Lily cornbread recipe is the perfect way to bring a little Southern comfort into your kitchen. As someone who’s always been drawn to the magic of classic recipes, I can tell you that this one stands out. What makes this cornbread so special? It’s all about the quality of the ingredients, and White Lily flour takes this recipe to the next level, giving your cornbread a light, airy texture that’s hard to resist.

After years of perfecting this dish, I can confidently say that White Lily is the secret to achieving the soft, fluffy crumb and golden crust that every great cornbread should have. Whether you’re enjoying it with a hearty stew or on its own with a dollop of butter, this cornbread will quickly become a favorite. So, let’s get started and make this White Lily cornbread recipe the star of your next meal!

Why Choose White Lily Flour for Cornbread?

White Lily Flour with Freshly Baked Cornbread

If you’re wondering what makes White Lily flour so special, you’re not alone! As someone who’s experimented with a variety of ingredients over the years, I can tell you that this flour truly makes all the difference when it comes to cornbread. Let’s break down why White Lily is the go-to choice for creating a light, fluffy, and flavorful cornbread that’s nothing short of amazing.

1. Made from Soft Wheat
White Lily flour is made from soft winter wheat, which gives it a unique, fine texture compared to regular all-purpose flour. This fine texture is key to achieving that melt-in-your-mouth, tender cornbread we all love. Soft wheat flour absorbs moisture better, helping create a moist, light crumb that’s hard to beat.

2. Perfect for Southern-Style Cornbread
Southern cornbread is all about that delicate balance between a slight crumbly texture and a tender, airy bite. White Lily flour’s soft, airy nature allows your cornbread to rise beautifully, while still retaining that comforting, slightly crumbly texture that’s the hallmark of a true Southern-style cornbread.

3. Lighter, Fluffier Texture
When you use White Lily flour in your cornbread, you’ll notice a significant difference in the final result. The crumb is lighter, airier, and less dense compared to traditional cornbread recipes. This is thanks to the lower protein content of the flour, which helps prevent that heavy, overly dense texture that can sometimes make cornbread feel more like a brick than a fluffy treat.

4. The Secret to Golden Perfection
Beyond texture, White Lily flour also helps achieve a golden, slightly crisp outer crust that’s a perfect contrast to the soft, tender interior. It’s these small, subtle details that make White Lily flour the secret ingredient for a truly show-stopping cornbread.

By using White Lily flour, you’re not just making cornbread—you’re elevating it to a whole new level. Whether you’re serving it with your favorite stew or enjoying a slice with a drizzle of honey, this flour ensures you’ll get that perfect, light, and fluffy cornbread every single time. Ready to get started? Let’s move on to the next step!

Ingredients You Need for a Perfect White Lily Cornbread

Now that you know why White Lily flour is the secret to a fluffy, tender cornbread, it’s time to gather all the ingredients you’ll need to make this delicious treat. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity — you don’t need any fancy or hard-to-find ingredients, just a few staples that come together to create magic in the kitchen.

Here’s what you’ll need for a perfect White Lily cornbread recipe:

1 cup White Lily self-rising flour
This is the foundation of your cornbread. Self-rising flour gives the bread the lift and light texture that’s key to this recipe. If you can’t find White Lily, feel free to substitute with any self-rising flour, but we recommend White Lily for the best result.
1 cup cornmeal
Cornmeal adds that signature texture and flavor to your cornbread. Opt for finely ground cornmeal for a smoother, less gritty texture.
1/4 cup granulated sugar
A touch of sweetness is all you need to balance out the savory elements. Adjust this based on your preference, but don’t skip it—this little bit of sugar enhances the cornbread’s flavor.
1/2 teaspoon salt
Just a pinch to enhance the flavors and round out the sweetness of the cornmeal and flour.
2 large eggs
Eggs are essential for binding everything together and giving your cornbread that nice, rich texture. You’ll want them at room temperature for even mixing.
1 cup milk
Whole milk is the best choice here for a creamy consistency. If you prefer a lighter option, you can use 2% or skim milk, though whole milk will give you a richer flavor.
1/2 cup melted butter
Butter adds both richness and flavor to the cornbread, while also helping it brown to that perfect golden color. You can also swap out the butter for vegetable oil if you prefer.
Optional: 1/4 cup buttermilk
If you’re looking to add a little extra tang and make your cornbread even more moist, try substituting half of the regular milk with buttermilk. It creates a slight acidity that works beautifully with the sweetness of the cornmeal.

Ingredients for Perfect White Lily Cornbread

A Few Tips:

Room Temperature Ingredients: For optimal texture, allow your eggs and milk to reach room temperature before incorporating them. This helps the ingredients come together more smoothly.
Don’t Overmix: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix until just combined. Overmixing can make the cornbread dense, and we want it light and airy!
Customization: Feel free to get creative with your ingredients. Some like to add a handful of shredded cheese or a sprinkle of jalapeños for a spicy twist.

With these simple ingredients, you’re well on your way to making a batch of perfect White Lily cornbread that will be the star of any meal. Ready to get cooking? Let’s move on to the next step!

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making White Lily Cornbread

Now that you’ve gathered your ingredients, it’s time to dive into the fun part: making the White Lily cornbread! I promise this is a straightforward process, and with a little attention to detail, you’ll have warm, golden cornbread in no time. Let’s walk through each step, and I’ll share a few tips along the way to ensure you get the best results.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven & Prepare the Pan

Before we start mixing, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This ensures that your cornbread starts cooking right away, giving it that perfect golden-brown crust. While the oven is heating, lightly grease a 9-inch cast-iron skillet, baking dish, or even a square pan. If you’re using a cast-iron skillet, place it in the oven to preheat as well—this will help the edges crisp up beautifully.

Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together your White Lily flour, cornmeal, sugar, and salt. Take a moment to feel the texture of the flour and cornmeal—the fine quality of White Lily flour really makes this step feel extra smooth! It’s important to make sure everything is well combined so the baking powder in the self-rising flour can work its magic. Set the bowl aside.

Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, combine the eggs, milk, and melted butter, and whisk until smooth. If you’re using buttermilk, add it in now for that extra richness. Make sure the butter isn’t too hot when you add it—lukewarm is perfect, so it blends well without cooking the eggs.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Combine the wet ingredients with the dry ingredients in the bowl. Using a spatula or wooden spoon, gently stir everything together until just combined. Don’t overmix! You’ll want to leave a few lumps in the batter—that’s what gives your cornbread its lovely texture. Overmixing can make it dense, and we want that light, fluffy texture we all love.

Step 5: Pour the Batter & Bake

Once the batter is mixed, pour it into your preheated skillet or pan. If you’re using a cast-iron skillet, you’ll hear a satisfying sizzle as the batter hits the hot surface, which is a good sign! Spread the batter out evenly and pop it into the oven.

Bake for approximately 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The cornbread should have risen nicely and formed that crisp, buttery edge we all crave.

Pouring Cornbread Batter into a Baking Pan

Step 6: Let it Rest

Once your cornbread is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest in the pan for about 5 minutes. This allows the cornbread to firm up just a little, making it easier to slice. Trust me—this small step helps keep your cornbread from falling apart too quickly.

Step 7: Serve & Enjoy

Now for the best part—serve your White Lily cornbread while it’s warm! Slice it into squares or wedges, and enjoy it with a drizzle of honey butter or alongside your favorite comfort foods. It pairs perfectly with chili, soup, or even a hearty salad.

A Few Extra Tips:

Check for Doneness: Every oven is different, so start checking your cornbread at the 20-minute mark. If the top is golden and the toothpick comes out clean, it’s ready.
For Extra Crispness: If you want an even crispier bottom, consider using a well-seasoned cast-iron skillet, which retains heat and gives your cornbread a lovely, crunchy exterior.
Flavor Variations: Want to spice things up? Add a handful of shredded cheese, diced jalapeños, or even crumbled bacon to the batter before baking for a savory twist.

Tips for the Best Southern-Style Cornbread

If you’ve ever enjoyed a slice of Southern-style cornbread, you know that it’s about more than just a recipe—it’s a bit of a tradition. The beauty of cornbread lies in its simplicity, but a few tips can elevate it from good to great. After perfecting this White Lily cornbread recipe, I’m excited to share a few tried-and-true tips that will help you get that perfect, golden cornbread every time. Let’s dive in!

1. Use a Cast-Iron Skillet for Extra Crispiness

One of the hallmarks of Southern-style cornbread is the crispy, golden edges. The best way to achieve this is by baking your cornbread in a preheated cast-iron skillet. The skillet holds heat evenly, creating a beautifully crisp crust while keeping the center soft and fluffy. If you don’t have a cast-iron skillet, no worries! You can still use a regular baking dish, but cast iron will always give you that extra touch of perfection.

Cast-Iron Skillet Cornbread with Crispy Crust

2. Preheat the Skillet (or Pan)

Speaking of cast-iron skillets, it’s important to preheat it before pouring in the batter. When you pour the batter into a hot pan, it immediately starts cooking the edges, helping to form that crispy, golden crust. This small step really makes a difference in the final texture.

3. Don’t Overmix the Batter

It’s tempting to stir your batter until it’s smooth, but overmixing can make the cornbread dense and chewy. The key to a fluffy White Lily cornbread is to mix the wet and dry ingredients until they’re just combined. A few lumps are perfectly fine! In fact, they’ll give your cornbread a delightful, tender texture.

4. Let the Cornbread Rest After Baking

Once you pull the cornbread out of the oven, resist the urge to cut into it immediately. Let it rest in the pan for about 5 minutes. This allows the cornbread to firm up slightly, making it easier to slice and helping it hold its shape. Trust me, it’s worth the wait!

5. Add a Touch of Sweetness (But Not Too Much)

Traditional Southern cornbread is often less sweet than its Northern counterparts, but a hint of sugar is what helps balance out the savory flavors. For the White Lily cornbread, just a small amount—around 1/4 cup of sugar—will provide the perfect amount of sweetness without overpowering the dish. Adjust this depending on your preference, but be careful not to go overboard!

6. Experiment with Add-Ins

While Southern-style cornbread is delicious on its own, feel free to get creative with add-ins to customize the flavor. Here are a few ideas:

Cheese: Add shredded cheddar for a savory, cheesy cornbread that pairs wonderfully with chili or soups.
Jalapeños: For a spicy kick, stir in finely chopped jalapeños. This adds a nice contrast to the sweetness of the cornmeal.
Bacon: A handful of crumbled cooked bacon adds a smoky, savory depth to your cornbread that’s irresistible.

7. Bake Until Golden Brown

You’ll know your cornbread is ready when the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Every oven is different, so start checking around the 20-minute mark, but generally, it will take 20–25 minutes. The crispy top and slightly moist center are what make White Lily cornbread such a delight.

A Few Final Notes:

Storage: Cornbread is best eaten fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for 1–2 days. For extended storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.
Serving Suggestions: Serve it warm with a dollop of butter or honey for extra flavor. It also makes a perfect side for hearty dishes like chili, barbecue, or a good old-fashioned bowl of soup.

Creative Ways to Serve White Lily Cornbread

Now that you’ve perfected your White Lily cornbread, it’s time to think about how to serve it! While cornbread is a delicious side dish on its own, there are endless ways to elevate the experience and pair it with other dishes. Whether you’re looking to enjoy it as a comforting snack or as part of a full meal, here are some creative ideas for serving your Southern-style cornbread.

1. Classic Southern Comfort: Cornbread with Chili

There’s no better pairing than cornbread with a steaming bowl of chili. The light, fluffy texture of the White Lily cornbread contrasts beautifully with the rich, hearty flavors of chili. Whether it’s a spicy beef chili or a vegetarian version, cornbread helps balance out the heat and adds a touch of sweetness. Try drizzling a little honey butter on top for an extra indulgent twist!

2. Top it with Butter and Honey

Sometimes the simplest things are the best. A warm slice of cornbread with a generous pat of butter and a drizzle of honey is a match made in heaven. The buttery richness combined with the sweetness of honey complements the cornbread’s savory flavor. This is especially perfect for breakfast or a light afternoon snack.

3. Serve it Alongside Barbecue

If you’re firing up the grill, cornbread is the perfect sidekick for any barbecue spread. The sweet, savory flavor of White Lily cornbread pairs wonderfully with smoked meats like pulled pork, ribs, or grilled chicken. You can also serve it with a tangy barbecue sauce or a dollop of creamy coleslaw for a well-rounded meal. The cornbread soaks up all those delicious sauces, making every bite even more flavorful.

4. Make It into a Cornbread Salad

For a fun, hearty twist, try using cornbread as the base for a cornbread salad. Cube your cooled cornbread and toss it with vegetables like tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, and a creamy dressing. You can even add some crumbled bacon or cheese for extra flavor. This is a great way to repurpose leftover cornbread into a refreshing side dish that’s perfect for picnics or barbecues.

5. Serve it with Soup

Cornbread and soup are a classic combo, especially for a cozy dinner on a chilly evening. Whether it’s a bowl of tomato soup, chicken and vegetable soup, or a creamy potato soup, cornbread makes the perfect accompaniment. Tear off chunks of cornbread and dip them into your soup—its soft, airy texture is just the right balance to hearty, comforting soups.

6. Cornbread with Gravy

For a Southern-style twist, you can serve White Lily cornbread with homemade gravy. This is a fantastic way to enjoy cornbread for breakfast or brunch. A simple sausage gravy, rich and creamy, poured over a warm slice of cornbread will leave you satisfied and craving more. It’s a dish that’s sure to be a hit at any gathering.

7. Cornbread Stuffing for the Holidays

If you’re looking ahead to the holidays or just want to change things up, cornbread stuffing is a great option. Crumble White Lily cornbread into chunks and mix it with sautéed onions, celery, and herbs for a flavorful stuffing that’s perfect for turkey or chicken. The light, fluffy texture of the cornbread adds a wonderful dimension to the stuffing.

Conclusion

Congratulations, you’ve just made the perfect White Lily cornbread! With its light, fluffy texture and golden crust, this recipe is sure to become a go-to in your kitchen. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish at dinner or enjoying it with a drizzle of honey for a snack, there’s no wrong way to enjoy this Southern classic.

Here’s a quick recap of why this recipe works so well:

White Lily Flour: The key to a tender, light cornbread.

Simple Ingredients: Basic pantry staples that come together to create magic.
Versatility: Whether it’s paired with chili, soup, or enjoyed on its own, cornbread fits in just about any meal.

I hope you’ve found this White Lily cornbread recipe just as easy and enjoyable to make as it is to eat. It’s a dish that brings comfort, warmth, and a little bit of Southern hospitality to any table. Now, whenever you crave something homemade and hearty, you’ll know exactly where to turn.

Enjoy your freshly baked cornbread, and don’t forget to share it with friends and family—they’re going to love it as much as you do!

———————————————

White Lily Cornbread Recipe

Chef Clara

Try this easy and delicious White Lily cornbread recipe for light, fluffy cornbread with a perfect golden crust. A true Southern classic!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10

Cook Time 30

Total Time 40

Course Side Dish

Cuisine Southern

Servings 8 Servings

Calories 190 kcal

Ingredients

1 cup White Lily self-rising flour

This is the foundation of your cornbread. Self-rising flour gives the bread the lift and light texture that’s key to this recipe. If you can’t find White Lily feel free to substitute with any self-rising flour, but we recommend White Lily for the best result.

1 cup cornmeal

Cornmeal adds that signature texture and flavor to your cornbread. Opt for finely ground cornmeal for a smoother less gritty texture.

1/4 cup granulated sugar

A touch of sweetness is all you need to balance out the savory elements. Adjust this based on your preference but don’t skip it—this little bit of sugar enhances the cornbread’s flavor.

1/2 teaspoon salt

Just a pinch to enhance the flavors and round out the sweetness of the cornmeal and flour.

2 large eggs

Eggs are essential for binding everything together and giving your cornbread that nice rich texture. You’ll want them at room temperature for even mixing.

1 cup milk

Whole milk is the best choice here for a creamy consistency. If you prefer a lighter option you can use 2% or skim milk, though whole milk will give you a richer flavor.

1/2 cup melted butter

Butter adds both richness and flavor to the cornbread while also helping it brown to that perfect golden color. You can also swap out the butter for vegetable oil if you prefer.

Optional: 1/4 cup buttermilk

If you’re looking to add a little extra tang and make your cornbread even more moist try substituting half of the regular milk with buttermilk. It creates a slight acidity that works beautifully with the sweetness of the cornmeal.