Currently multi-output recipes reset to output type 1 when you click on another recipe in your crafting interface. If you're trying to crit output 2 (or 3, or 4) this can lead to frustrating results... Fail to crit - click on components to make more for another attempt - return to desired recipe, not noticing that it reset to output 1 - get the crit - return home, place in chest - log in the character to receive the item, and finally notice that it's not actually what you wanted.

At least the unwanted item I made does seem to be the right choice for my burglar. He just needs to store it in his vault for 19 levels before he can use it.

But it seems to me that your selected option in any multi-output recipe really should persist for the duration that the crafting panel remains open.