Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

In a large bowl, cream together softened butter, sugar, and vanilla extract until light and fluffy.

Add the egg and mix until fully incorporated.

In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt, then gradually add to the wet ingredients until just combined.

Add green gel food coloring to the dough and mix thoroughly until color is evenly distributed.

Scoop portions of dough, roll into balls, and place on the prepared baking sheet, spaced 2 inches apart.

Flatten each ball slightly to create the turtle bodies, then form smaller balls for heads and legs, attaching them gently.

Bake for 5-7 minutes until bottoms are lightly browned and tops remain soft.

Cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely before decorating.