Naples pastry chef competes in Food Network holiday baking show finale Monday night

Monday night is crunch time for Lerome Campbell, a Naples pastry chef competing on the finals of the Food Network’s “Holiday Baking Championship.”

Campbell, who works at The Ritz-Carlton beach resort in North Naples, was at risk of elimination during last Monday night’s episode after a surprise ingredient sent the final four competitors reeling — fruitcake. But in the end, his “festive” and “delicious” lemon cream was enough to advance him to the final round.

Previous coverage:Naples pastry chef advances to final round of Food Network holiday baking show

More:Naples pastry chef advances, again, on Food Network holiday baking competition

Now Campbell, 35, and two other bakers remain in the competition. At stake for Monday night’s winner: $25,000 and the title of Holiday Baking Champion.

The Food Network’s preview of the final episode lays out the action. In the pre-heat, the three competitors will have to create a beautiful edible holiday ornament display.

More:Naples pastry chef advances on Food Network's holiday baking competition

For the final main heat, they will be asked to channel holiday gift shopping by creating a cake that is decorated like a gift on the outside and reveals a surprise inside when sliced.

‘Holiday Baking Championship’

What: Naples pastry chef Lerome Campbell competes on the finale

When: 9 p.m. Monday, Dec. 17

How to watch: The Food Network