So I want to make that sucker to bring to a cookout this weekend. My question is this: how important is it that the cake is warm when served? If it doesn't matter, I'll make it earlier in the day, but if it's significantly better served warm, I'll do all the prep work at my place, but toss it in the host's oven when we're done with dinner.
I think it's a lot better warm because the excessive use of butter makes craters in the cake when it's warm. You can serve it cold too, I just recommend heating it at least a little bit.
I'd get it totally ready and then toss it in the over when you're done with dinner. You can even have the glaze ready, just drizzle it over the cake when it comes out of the oven.