Jasmine's decision to use the zest of eight limes wasn't timidity—it was calculated boldness that Paul Hollywood specifically noted when he said the lime "really carries the flavor through." Citrus zest contains essential oils that deliver intense aromatic flavor without adding liquid or acidity that could affect texture. Eight limes might seem excessive for a single cheesecake, but Basque cheesecake's rich, dense composition (2 pounds of cream cheese, 2 cups of heavy cream) can handle and actually requires aggressive flavoring to avoid tasting merely sweet and heavy. The high-heat baking also mellows citrus intensity slightly as some volatile compounds dissipate. When zesting, use a microplane to capture only the colored outer layer, avoiding the bitter white pith beneath. The fine zest distributes evenly throughout the batter, ensuring every bite carries that bright lime presence Jasmine intended. This principle applies broadly: rich, dense desserts benefit from bold flavoring that might seem overwhelming in lighter applications.