Can you put a refrigerated crock in cooking base while still cold?

It's generally not recommended to put a refrigerated crock into a cooking base while it's still cold.

Here's why:

* Thermal shock: The sudden temperature change from cold to hot can cause the crock to crack or shatter, especially if it's made of glass or ceramic.

* Uneven heating: The cold crock will absorb heat from the cooking base unevenly, potentially leading to inconsistent cooking or even damage to the crock.

Here's what you should do instead:

1. Let the crock come to room temperature: This allows the crock to adjust to the temperature change gradually, reducing the risk of damage.

2. Warm the crock gently: You can warm the crock in a sink filled with warm water or by placing it in a preheated oven at a low temperature (around 200°F) for a few minutes.

3. Add the crock to the cooking base: Once the crock is warmed, you can safely add it to the cooking base.

Following these steps will help ensure that your crock remains intact and you can enjoy your meal without any unwanted surprises!