Strawberry Cream Cheese Danish: A Sweet, Flaky Delight

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
Roll out the puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface to smooth out creases. Cut the sheet into 4 squares (or larger rectangles, depending on your desired size).
Make the Cream Cheese Filling:

In a small bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract together until smooth and creamy. This mixture will serve as the rich base for your Danish.
Assemble the Danish:

Place a spoonful of the cream cheese mixture in the center of each puff pastry square. Spread it out slightly, leaving some space at the edges.
Gently fold the corners of the pastry towards the center, creating a little pocket. You can fold the edges all the way to the middle, or leave a small opening in the center for a more rustic look.
Add the Strawberry Topping:

Spoon a small amount of strawberry preserves onto the cream cheese filling or top with chopped fresh strawberries for a more natural option.
Bake the Danish:

Optionally, brush the edges of the pastry with a bit of milk to help them turn golden brown when baked. Sprinkle some coarse sugar on top for a sweet, crunchy finish.
Place the Danish on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed, golden brown, and crispy.
Cool and Serve:

Let the Danish cool for a few minutes before serving. This allows the filling to set a little bit and prevents any burns from the warm fruit.
Serving and Storage Tips: