Virginia's Almond Pound Cake

Submitted by Becky Hansen
(Becky made this for me on my birthday - it was a true southern treat - you have to try this!)

2 cups butter or margarine
2 1/2 cups granulated sugar, divided use
5 large eggs
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
3 tablespoons almond extract
1/2 cup water
1/4 cup powdered sugar Preheat oven to 350*F. In a bowl with an electric mixer at low speed, beat butter until fluffy. Slowly beat in 2 cups sugar. Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in flour. Add vanilla and almond extract. Beat till thoroughly combined. Pour batter into a greased 13 x 9-inch baking pan. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes. Remove from oven and top with almond topping. Topping: In a saucepan combine water and 1/2 cup granulated sugar; bring to a boil. Cook 5 to 7 minutes. Stir in almond extract. Drizzle on top of the warm cake. Cool cake. Sprinkle powdered sugar on top. Makes 16 servings.