Yes, a crockpot or slow cooker can crack or break if placed directly in the freezer while hot or warm. Slow cookers are typically made of ceramic or stoneware materials, which are susceptible to thermal shock. Thermal shock occurs when there is a rapid and extreme change in temperature, causing the material to expand or contract quickly, leading to cracks or breakage.
Here's what you should keep in mind:
Cooling down: Before placing a slow cooker in the freezer, allow it to cool down to room temperature. Placing a hot or warm crockpot in the freezer can cause the sudden temperature change that leads to cracking.
Freezer-safe containers: If you want to freeze leftovers from your slow cooker, transfer the food to freezer-safe containers or storage bags. Make sure the food has cooled down before freezing.
Thawing: When you're ready to use the frozen food, thaw it in the refrigerator or another safe method before reheating it in the slow cooker or another cooking appliance.
Crockpot lids: The lids of slow cookers are typically made of tempered glass or other materials designed to withstand the heat of slow cooking. However, they may also be susceptible to thermal shock, so avoid placing a hot lid in the freezer as well.
To summarize, avoid placing a hot or warm crockpot in the freezer to prevent cracking or breaking. Allow the slow cooker and its contents to cool down before transferring food to freezer-safe containers for storage.