When you’re in the middle of baking a cake, the last thing you want is to realize you’re out of toothpicks. The humble toothpick has long been the go-to tool for testing cake doneness—insert it into the center, pull it out clean, and your cake is ready. But what if you don’t have one? Fortunately, several effective alternatives can give you a clean check without compromising your bake. First up is a bamboo skewer. Longer and sturdier than a toothpick, a skewer works identically: poke it into the thickest part of the cake, and if it comes out dry or with only a few crumbs, your cake is done. The same logic applies to a thin knife or a metal cake tester, which are reusable and easy to clean. Another surprising alternative is a strand of uncooked spaghetti. It’s thin enough to pierce the cake without leaving a large hole, and you can quickly see if batter clings to it. For a more precise method, consider the finger test: gently press the center of the cake; if it springs back, it’s baked through. You can also rely on visual cues—when the edges pull away from the pan and the top is golden brown, it’s often a sign of readiness. Each method works because the principle is the same: you need something clean, dry, and heat-safe to check the interior. Skewers and cake testers are preferred by many professional bakers for their accuracy and durability. If you’re baking a delicate sponge, a knife might be too thick, so stick with thinner options like spaghetti or skewers. Remember, the key is not just the tool but how you use it: insert it into the center or the tallest part of the cake, wait a few seconds, and pull it out. A clean check means no wet batter, but a few moist crumbs are acceptable for moist cakes like pound cake. In summary, running out of toothpicks doesn’t mean you have to guess. Use a skewer, spaghetti, knife, or even your finger to ensure your cake is perfectly baked every time. These alternatives are not only practical but often more reusable and environmentally friendly. Next time you bake, keep these tools handy for a reliable clean check.