Triple-Lemon Layering: Building Complex Citrus Flavor

To achieve lemon flavor that's complex and multidimensional rather than one-note, layer different expressions of lemon throughout your bake. Lemon zest provides aromatic oils with no acidity—bright, fragrant, almost floral notes. Fresh lemon juice delivers pure acidity and tartness—the classic lemon punch that makes taste buds sing. Limoncello adds sweet boozy depth with a rounder, more mature lemon character. Cristy used all three in her sponge, curd, and buttercream, declaring "If the judges don't taste the lemons, then I don't know what the heck I've done wrong." For maximum zest impact, rub the zest into sugar before creaming to release the aromatic oils.