Question about Applesauce-Raisin Cake in Nov. '00

[Jessica]

I had this cake at my CL dinner and it was so fabulous, I want to make it for a friend's birthday. However, I don't bake a lot of cakes.
Do you think it would be ok to bake it one day before the birthday dinner? Should I refrigerate it or just leave it on the counter? And should I ice it the day I bake it or the day I serve it?

[BeckyM]

I often make cakes a day before serving, and they turn out fine. I frost them the day I make them, because I think that helps keep the cake from drying out. Then I usually refrigerate them just to be sure. But I think it would be okay to leave out on the counter. I know I made that particular cake, and I don't think it has any cream cheese or anything like that in the frosting, so it should be okay either in the fridge or out. If it were me, I would refrigerate it, then take it out of the fridge enough ahead of time for it to not be quite as cold when served. Good luck! Your friend is fortunate to have someone who will bake a birthday cake like that!

[Jessica]

Thanks, Becky.