First-generation Americans Robin and Vuth Nou established Robin’s Snowflake Donuts & Cafe on July 4, 2016. The family-owned doughnut shop was inspired by a combination of life-altering events endured by the Nou family.

“My parents always struggled to give us a better life, and I think that's probably what inspired this,” Robin Nou said.

How it happened

Although the couple had no prior experience in the baking industry, Vuth Nou had a passion for cooking, and Robin Nou strongly believed in the power of timing.

At the time, Vuth Nou worked labor jobs for oil and gas companies. However, once Vuth Nou was laid off, the couple decided it was time to fulfill their dream of becoming business owners.


“We didn't really have formal training or anything, but we were motivated,” Robin Nou said.

The couple was also inspired by other community members who had their own businesses, but what really pushed them to dive into their dream was a tragedy that the couple said led to a blessing.

After beating breast cancer, Robin Nou decided to establish the doughnut shop to leave a legacy for her family.

Diving in deeper


Known for their boudin-sausage egg rolls, gourmet doughnuts and fritters, Robin's Snowflake Donuts & Cafe established its customer base after Hurricane Harvey. Robin Nou said their doughnut shop was one of the only businesses operating during the storm.

Due to the limited sources for food and water, people began to notice the doughnut shop, which remained open to provide resources to community members in need.

“This is a business that puts food on the table, and we believe in giving back to the community when we can,” Robin Nou said.

After almost eight years, the doughnut shop has become a favorite in the community.


“We constantly have lines out the door,” Robin Nou said.

Although Robin's Snowflake Donuts & Cafe was intended to be known as a doughnut shop, Robin Nou said they are well known for their egg rolls, including boudin-sausage egg rolls, smoked brisket egg rolls and breakfast egg rolls. Robin Nou said the recipes were influenced by her mother who taught her to make traditional Cambodian-style egg rolls.

Today, Robin's Snowflake Donuts & Cafe offers a wide variety of doughnuts, egg rolls, fritters, kolaches and fresh brewed coffee. Robin Nou said she plans to continue focusing on the quality of the shop's menu items and customer services to ensure a quality business.