Substack: Timer links in Substack posts
Add timer links to any Substack post — they work for readers on the web, in email, and in the Substack app.
Generate your timer link
Use the generator to create a timer link with the right name and duration.
Open your Substack post
In your Substack dashboard, open an existing post or start a new one. Navigate to the recipe step that includes a timer.
Select the text and add the link
Select the text you want to turn into a timer link — for example, “cook for 12 minutes”. Press Ctrl+K / ⌘K or click the link icon in the formatting toolbar. Paste the RecipeTimer URL and press Enter.
Save and publish
Save your draft or publish directly. The link will be live for all readers — web, email, and app.
What your readers see
Reading on the web
Timer links appear inline as coloured hyperlinks. Android readers with the RecipeTimer app get a native timer. All others see the browser-based timer.
Reading in email
Substack sends your posts as emails. Timer links work in email — tapping the link opens the browser timer in the reader's default browser. The timer starts immediately.
Reading in the Substack app
The Substack app opens external links in its in-app browser. The browser timer will work, though readers may need to keep the Substack app open for the timer tab to stay active. Recommending readers use the RecipeTimer app ensures reliable native alerts.
Tip: mention the app
Consider adding a short note near the first timer link — for example: “Tap the timer links to start a countdown. For reliable alerts, get the free RecipeTimer app on Android.” This sets expectations for all readers and drives app adoption.