Creating the perfect Strawberry Danish with Cream Cheese is easy if you follow these steps:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Prepare Cream Cheese Filling: In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and egg yolk until smooth and creamy.

3. Roll Out Puff Pastry: Unroll the thawed puff pastry sheet on a floured surface. Gently roll it out to fit your baking sheet.

4. Cut the Pastry: Cut the puff pastry into a rectangle. Make sure it is large enough to hold the filling.

5. Prepare Strawberries: In another bowl, combine the sliced strawberries, cornstarch, and lemon juice. Toss until the strawberries are well coated.

6. Assemble the Danish: Place the cream cheese filling in the center of the puff pastry. Gently spread it out but leave some border around the edges. Top with the strawberry mixture.

7. Create the Edges: Fold the edges of the pastry over the filling to create a border, leaving the center open. Press the edges gently to secure them.

8. Prepare Egg Wash: Beat the egg and brush it over the edges of the pastry to give it a golden color when baked.

9. Bake: Place the Danish in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.

10. Cool and Dust: Once baked, let the Danish cool on a wire rack for about 15 minutes. Dust with powdered sugar before serving if desired.

Each of these easy-to-follow steps will lead you to bake this incredibly delicious pastry, bringing joy to your kitchen and your table.