What is the best method to check if a cake is done baking?

The most reliable method to determine if a cake is done baking is to insert a toothpick into the center of the cake and check for cleanliness. When the cake is properly baked, the toothpick should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached, indicating that the center is fully cooked. This method provides a direct evaluation of the cake's internal condition, allowing for an accurate assessment of doneness.

While other indicators can provide helpful hints, such as the color of the cake's surface, tapping the top, or checking for aroma, they are not as definitive as the toothpick test. The surface color may vary depending on the type of cake and the oven conditions, and while a pleasant aroma suggests that the cake is baking well, it does not confirm that the interior has reached the appropriate temperature and texture. Tapping the top can indicate some level of spring back, but this method is not foolproof, as the cake may still be undercooked inside. Thus, using a toothpick ensures a precise determination of whether the cake is ready to be removed from the oven.