What is the purpose of using a cooling rack for bread?

Using a cooling rack for bread primarily serves the purpose of preventing sogginess and allowing for proper air circulation. When freshly baked bread is removed from the oven, it needs to release steam to maintain the right texture. If bread is placed directly on a solid surface, the steam will accumulate underneath, causing the bottom to become moist and soggy.

A cooling rack elevates the bread, allowing air to circulate freely around it, facilitating even cooling and maintaining a crisp crust. This method ensures that the overall structure of the bread remains intact and that the crust remains appealing and textured rather than damp and chewy.

While other choices touch on aspects related to bread making, they do not align with the primary function of a cooling rack.