Where does the phrase "Upper Crust" come from?In terms of the higher class in society.?

Answer 1

Upper Crust.

The lions or crack men of the day. The phrase was first used in Sam Slick. The upper crust was at one time the part of the loaf placed before the most honoured guests. Thus, in Wynkyn de Worde’s Boke of Keruinge (carving) we have these directions: “Then take a lofe in your lyfte hande, and pare ye lofe rounde about; then cut the ouer-cruste to your souerayne …” Furnwall, in Manners and Meales, etc., says the same thing—“Kutt the vpper cruste for your souerayne.” 1
“I want you to see Peel, Stanley, Graham, Shiel, Russell, Macaulay, old Joe, and so on. They are all upper crust here.”

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Answer 2

The term "upper crust," referring literally to the upper portion of a loaf of bread, is indeed very old, dating back to at least 1460. Subsequent instances of "upper crust" included its figurative use as a synonym for the surface of the earth (1555) and as slang for, believe it or not, a hat (1826).

But the metaphorical use of "upper crust" in its modern sense of "the aristocracy or the wealthy class" seems, as Mr. Bryson says, to have first occurred in early 19th century America, and was widespread enough by 1848 to be included by John Bartlett in his seminal "Dictionary of Americanisms" published that year. And the term simply refers to the "upper layers" of society in an economic sense, not to the perceived superiority of any portion of a loaf of bread

Answer 3

Before the advent of plates round, flat loaves would be baked in stone ovens. They would then be sliced horzontally--the lower crust was inedible because it had been in contact with the oven floor and was too hard to eat but made an excellent plate--the upper crust, which was perfectly fine, was given to the lord and lady of the castle/manor to eat and so such folks became known as 'The upper crusts'.

Answer 4

It is purported to come from the Medieval analogy to pie or bread. The upper crust was less burnt and more flavorful and was reserved for the important people in the household, while the workers and servants would get the rest. See the site below for more information.