You think it’s all about the payoff, but it’s really about timing and the little surprise twist. If the setup feels like a joke that could happen to anyone, everyone’s in on it. Keep the gag harmless—like swapping sugar for salt—then toss in a wild flourish, maybe a fake gasp or a goofy face. The laugh comes when the audience sees, “That’s exactly what I’d have done.” No hurt, just a shared moment of silly. That’s the secret sauce, my friend.