Gibson Golden apples are small to medium and slightly oblong to round in size. The skin is smooth, matte, and is a deep yellow-green speckled with faint white lenticels, or spots, and light ribbing. The fine-grained flesh is creamy white, crisp, and tender. There is also a tough and fibrous central core that runs the length of the fruit and extends to the base of the long and slender stem. Golden apples are juicy and smooth with a sweet flavor with nuances of spice.
 
The Gibson Golden has long been touted for its excellence as a dessert apple. Add to cakes, sweet breads and muffins. Breaking down fairly easily when cooked, it is perfect for use in sauces, preserves and chutneys. Due to its delicate flesh it is best paired with dense fleshed apples such as Rome, Fuji and Granny Smith, when used in pies and tarts. Its high juice content and lightly spiced flavor make it an ideal apple for use in cider. Grimes Golden works well in savory and fresh applications as well. Add to chopped and green salads or layer slices in burgers and sandwiches.