Make ahead recipes- How far ahead?

[CLCH]

Hi guys!
I have been reading this board for awhile, but this is my first post. I am having Christmas dinner at my house this year, but I will be out of town until Christmas eve. I wanted to make a cake ahead of time and have found a recipe for a chocolate marble poundcake that says it will get better if you make it ahead.

I was wondering though how far ahead I could make it and still have it be good. Could I bake it 4 days ahead and leave it in the refrigerator? Or should I try to freeze it? If so, how long will it take to thaw?

Thanks in advance,
Cheryl

[SusanL]

Cheryl, I would freeze it and save time defrosting it on Christmas Day. It should only take an hour or two to defrost-maybe remove it while or just before you start to eat. We only keep a cake in the refrig. for two days tops! Good luck!