Rhizomucor miehei lipase-catalysed synthesis of cocoa butter equivalent from palm mid-fraction and stearic acid: Characteristics and feasibility as cocoa butter alternative

•The CBE product resembled natural CB in triacylglycerol composition.•The CBE product showed similar hardness to cocoa butter after tempering.•The CBE product had steep SFC profiles and was compatible with CB.•The CBE product could replace 0–40% CB while maintaining thermodynamic properties.•The CBE crystals showed feather-like features differing from those of CB.