Why do you invert an angel food cake?

You invert an angel food cake to prevent it from sinking in the middle. Here's why:

* Air Bubbles: Angel food cake relies on air bubbles whipped into the egg whites for its lightness and structure. When the cake cools, these bubbles contract.

* Gravity: As the bubbles shrink, gravity pulls the cake down. This can cause the center to sink, creating a hollow space.

* Inversion Solution: Inverting the cake immediately after baking allows gravity to work in your favor. The cake hangs upside down, and the weight of the cake itself helps to keep the structure intact as the bubbles cool and contract.

How to Invert an Angel Food Cake:

1. Prepare: Before baking, place a large, sturdy bowl or cake stand upside down over your angel food cake pan.

2. Bake & Cool: Bake the cake according to your recipe, then let it cool completely in the pan.

3. Invert: Carefully flip the pan over onto the prepared bowl/stand. The cake should drop out smoothly.

4. Cool Further: Allow the cake to cool completely upside down, about 1-2 hours.

Note: Not all recipes require inverting. Some angel food cake recipes call for a different cooling method, like cooling in the pan right-side up. Always follow the instructions of your recipe.