Robin Frank transformed nostalgic family memories into a thriving cookie business that spreads joy with every bite. What began with lessons from her mother in the kitchen evolved into a beloved brand known for tiny treats that create big moments of connection.
THE SPARK: “I kept thinking and dreaming about what was meaningful to me. I kept going back to my mom and the time I used to spend with her in the kitchen baking. Specifically, how she taught me how to make cinnamon thumbs — these tiny cookies that everyone loved.” The moment of clarity came when sharing her vision with a neighbor: “She hadn’t even tried the cookies yet! But I could tell my story resonated with her. That’s when I knew it was going to be something special.”
DAILY DRIVE: “When you have your own business, creativity is the name of the game. Sometimes I dream a new flavor, or a new cookie, or a new way to package the cookies, or a new way to spread joy — and that gets my mind moving and my heart rate up a little bit. It’s the best part of the job! Someone once told me: ‘Don’t be the first, be the ONLY!’”
BEHIND THE SCENES: Her workspace in three words? “In my car, LOL — I always say my car is my real office. That’s where I always take the most important calls for some reason!” Her favorite part of creation? “I love dreaming about packaging and flavors and getting the flavors just right. It’s so fun to see people’s reactions when they first try our new creations too. It’s so gratifying.”
MILESTONE MEMORY: “I think having our product in the Grammy Awards VIP bags was pretty cool. Also, the cult following we have for our Margarita Pies is pretty cool to see. Oh, and building KIRBY — our cookie-mobile.”
LAKE AND COMPANY CONNECTION: While Robin isn’t sure exactly how long they’ve been partners, the collaboration has helped bring these tiny treats to more Minnesota cookie lovers.
LOOKING FORWARD: “I’m working on something more savory!” Robin continues to innovate while staying true to the personal connections that make Thumbs Cookies special.
MAKER’S ESSENTIALS:
Favorite Minnesota lake: Superior
Essential tool: My nose/palate
Morning ritual: The shower! I get my best ideas in the shower!
Advice for aspiring creators: Being SCRAPPY but looking CLASSY! I am always thinking about how we could do something with what we already have — and make it look different or unique but still classy.
Instagram: @thumbscookies
Website: thumbscookies.com