Test foods for “doneness”

Stick a toothpick into cakes and brownies while baking. If it comes out clean, the baked goods are done. The toothpick test is also a proven but less publicized method for checking barbecued ribs for "doneness". However, heed a few warnings. The toothpick test is not foolproof. Chocolate chips and other melting ingredients can mess up the test. Also, the toothpick test could crack a cheesecake. Finally, resist the urge to open the oven prematurely or obsessively to stick toothpicks in your cakes. Opening the door releases a lot of heat, and could cause problems.