What are the legs on an angel food cake pan for?

The legs on an angel food cake pan serve two primary purposes:

1. Air Circulation: The legs elevate the cake pan above the oven rack, allowing hot air to circulate freely around the pan. This even heat distribution helps the cake bake evenly and prevents the bottom from burning.

2. Cooling and Release: The legs also create a space between the cake and the oven rack when the cake is cooling. This gap promotes cooling and allows the cake to contract without sticking to the pan.

In short, the legs ensure proper baking and easy removal of the delicate angel food cake.